Eskişehir is a university city in north-western Turkey, set along the Porsuk River in the Anatolian interior. Its location places it in Asia, and the wider country straddles Asia and Europe, which gives the city a varied cultural backdrop. The Porsuk runs through the centre, and its waterfront promenades are a natural place to start a walk.
What the city feels like
The city has a young, lively character, shaped by its students and its many artists. Pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to wander on foot between cafés, shops and galleries. Colourful street art appears along the streets, and the atmosphere is relaxed and creative rather than formal.
Things to see and do
- Meerschaum crafts: Eskişehir is known for its meerschaum, a soft white mineral that local craftspeople carve into pipes and decorative objects. Workshops and shops are a good way to see the work up close.
- Odunpazarı Modern Museum: This museum, designed by the architect Kengo Kuma, is set in the Odunpazarı district. It stands out for its design and sits among the historic houses of that quarter.
- Historic Ottoman houses: The Odunpazarı neighbourhood keeps timber houses from the Ottoman period, and walking its streets offers a contrast with the modern city.
- Street art and waterfront walks: Strolling along the Porsuk and through the colourful lanes is a simple, rewarding way to spend an afternoon.
Planning a visit
Eskişehir suits visitors who enjoy craft, architecture and a lively student atmosphere, and it works well as a stop of a day or two. Because the main attractions are close together, most of the visit can be done on foot. Check current opening times and details before you travel, as these may change.
